20674, Piney Point, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20674, Piney Point, Maryland is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Scorecard for Hospitals Near ZIP Code 20674

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Access to high-quality, specialized care is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 20674 (Waldorf, Maryland), assessing their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support services. We'll consider factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive snapshot.

**Defining the Scope:**

Our focus will be on hospitals within a 30-45 minute driving radius of Waldorf, MD. This includes facilities in Charles County, Prince George's County, and potentially parts of Southern Maryland and Northern Virginia. The availability of data varies by hospital, and some information may be self-reported or based on publicly available sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and hospital websites.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Lung Cancer Programs:**

The closest major hospital with a comprehensive cancer program is likely **MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center** in Clinton, MD. While not a "flagship" in the same vein as a university hospital, it offers a range of services relevant to lung cancer patients. It’s crucial to note that CMS star ratings are not a direct indicator of cancer care quality, but they offer a general assessment of overall hospital performance. MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. ER wait times, a key metric for access, fluctuate. Patients should check real-time wait times on hospital websites or through online tools like Google. This hospital likely has a dedicated oncology unit and offers chemotherapy and potentially radiation therapy, but specifics on advanced treatments like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) or immunotherapy protocols would require direct inquiry. Telehealth capabilities are increasingly common; confirm whether oncology consultations and follow-up appointments are available remotely.

Further afield, **University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center** in La Plata, MD, offers a more localized option. While smaller than some of the larger hospitals in the region, it likely provides basic cancer services. CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be checked for current performance. Details regarding their lung cancer program, including the availability of specialized surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, should be verified directly with the hospital. Telehealth availability is something to explore for follow-up appointments.

**Venturing into Prince George's County:**

Heading north, **Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center** presents another option. Located in Fort Washington, MD, this hospital offers a cancer program that may include lung cancer treatment. The CMS star rating and ER wait times should be checked. Inquire about the hospital's specific lung cancer program, including the availability of a multidisciplinary team, access to clinical trials, and advanced imaging capabilities. Telehealth options are likely available, but the specifics should be confirmed.

**The University of Maryland Capital Region Health** (formerly Prince George's Hospital Center) in Cheverly, MD, is a larger facility. The hospital's cancer center likely provides a broader range of services. CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be investigated. The hospital's lung cancer program should be evaluated for its breadth of services, including access to specialized surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Inquire about advanced treatments like SBRT and immunotherapy. Telehealth services are likely available.

**Beyond the Immediate Vicinity: Considerations for Advanced Care:**

For complex cases or those requiring highly specialized treatment, patients may need to consider hospitals further afield.

**MedStar Georgetown University Hospital** in Washington, D.C., is a major academic medical center. It boasts a comprehensive cancer center and is likely to have a robust lung cancer program. CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be checked. This hospital typically offers a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, radiation therapy (including SBRT), chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Telehealth services are likely available for consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital** in Baltimore, MD, is another option for highly specialized care. This world-renowned institution has a comprehensive cancer center. CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be checked. Johns Hopkins offers cutting-edge lung cancer treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Telehealth options are available.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital** in Falls Church, VA, is a major regional medical center with a comprehensive cancer program. While across the state line, it's within a reasonable driving distance. CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be checked. Inova offers a wide range of lung cancer services, including advanced surgical options, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Telehealth services are available.

**Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons. This signifies a commitment to quality cancer care.
* **Multidisciplinary Team:** A good lung cancer program involves a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and nurses.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to advanced imaging (PET/CT scans), minimally invasive surgical techniques, and advanced radiation therapy (SBRT, IMRT) is crucial.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to the latest treatments.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and rehabilitation services.
* **Patient Reviews and Outcomes:** Explore patient reviews and hospital-reported outcomes data (where available) to gain insights into the quality of care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Confirm the availability of telehealth for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. This is especially useful for patients who live at a distance from the hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially in emergencies. Check real-time wait times on hospital websites or through online tools. Shorter wait times can be indicative of better overall efficiency.

**Telehealth and Lung Cancer Care:**

Telehealth is increasingly important for lung cancer patients. It can provide access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and support services, especially for patients who live at a distance from the hospital or have mobility issues. Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care requires careful consideration. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 20674. Patients should research each hospital's specific lung cancer program, including the availability of specialists, advanced treatments, and support services. They should also consider factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth capabilities. Consulting with your primary care physician or a pulmonologist is essential to determine the best course of action. Remember that this is a general overview, and specific needs will vary. Always verify information directly with the hospitals and consult with your healthcare team.